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Off-Grid Solar Eco-Cottage In Mindo Countryside

Mindo, Ecuador

Cottage450 sq. ft.

Bedrooms2

Sleeps4

Bathrooms1

Half Baths0

Min Stay1 nights

2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom, 4 Sleeps

Location: Mindo, Ecuador, South America (3 hours from Quito airport). We are nestled in the mountainous countryside of the Mindo-Nambillo cloud forest, at a leisurely 30 minute walk past the town of Mindo (towards the butterfly farm), and a 10 minute walk before the butterfly farm (Mariposario).

Accommodations: Eco-friendly cottage off the electrical grid, with solar panels. 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, sleeps up to 4.

For a larger accommodation, check out our country house listing which is located on the property of Posada La Lomita as well, at: vrbo 467511

Posada La Lomita offers an eco-friendly country cottage in the outskirts of Mindo, functioning off the electrical grid, and relying on solar panels for electricity and a local waterfall/mountain spring for water. We practice energy conservation, and are conscientious of not utilizing high voltage consuming products as well as turning off the lights and electrical appliances when not in use. This practice not only emphasizes the importance of energy conservation within all of our cultural visits, but it also allows us the opportunity to remind and reinforce resource conservation to our children, fellow guests and future generations.

The home is custom built and constructed entirely of wood. Views are possible in every location throughout the cottage, and the scenery and nature is breathtaking and awe inspiring of the Mindo-Nambillo cloud forest & forest reserve.

For the small family or couple who enjoys nature, and the uncontaminated, pure environment that the Mindo countryside has to offer--and for those who are still looking for the luxury comforts of a home--this is the perfect getaway for some peace and quiet, filled only with the sounds of birds, insects and running water.

There is nothing more relaxing, gratifying, and peaceful, then to have your own private haven amidst the birds and animals chirping and moseying outside. You can discreetly watch them through the limitless windows, or from the hammocks of our outdoor lookout! Come enjoy your family meals, relaxing reads, and gatherings with your loved ones in your own private paradise!

We are completely secluded and offer privacy from the bustle and noise in the town of Mindo. A larger house and smaller cabins are located on the property as well, making Posada La Lomita an excellent location for larger group gatherings in your own private hacienda. Due to the presence of other dwellings, other tourists might also be on the property, yet privacy is not an issue, as space is abundant.

The owners are bilingual in English and Spanish and we raise our two children bilingually as well. The cottage and property are child and eco-friendly, using only non-toxic products, and offering entertainment for children such as games and movies (in English and Spanish), plus badminton, soccer, croquet, and free range chickens to feed and collect eggs from.

The light colored wood construction blends in naturally with the forested mountainous environment, emphasizing the oneness with your surroundings. Our water source comes from natural water spring & waterfall in the mountains above, thus supplying filtered (yet untreated) chemical and pollutant free water for the house.

Though daytime can reach the 80's F, nighttime tends to be cool, for which one controls the temperature by simply closing the windows and using extra, supplied blankets if needed.

The kitchen is built with socialization in mind, fostering openness to the dining and kitchen area, thus making mealtime sociable and family friendly events.

The living area is surrounded on 3 sides with floor to ceiling windows and screens, permitting a 270 degree view of the wildlife and forest scenery below. You can enjoy these views in the comfort of your own hammock or bean bag.

Nighttime at Posada La Lomita resembles a starry sky, except instead of stars, you will notice that they are lightning bugs, illuminating the darkness! Sometimes it's as if you were in your own private galaxy, surrounded by twinkling stars (flashing fireflies) as you walk the property in the dark. Paths are also automatically illuminated with solar lamps that turn on at dusk.

Apart from the basic package, extra available services include a private chef, maid (basic housekeeping is already provided), chauffeur, guide, and babysitter. Please inquire if any of these interest you, as only a basic daily cleaning service is already included (changing the trash and sweeping the floors).

Breakfast is also available for an additional cost, and consists of coffee/tea/hot chocolate, fresh juice, bread, eggs (usually free range from our chickens), cheese, fresh fruit, butter and jelly. If another kind of breakfast is desired, please discuss it with us beforehand, and if feasible, we would be more than happy to accommodate! Likewise, please give us a day's notice if you would like breakfast.

For a guest quantity of 2-4, we charge an additional $25/person, not including the breakfast.

The owners live on the property as well, yet we are at a comfortable, private distance from the cottage, and are available to assist with any of your needs or arrange them entirely for you. Advance notice is kindly appreciated, however.

As experienced travelers ourselves--and having our own small children--we realize that one's own accommodations and necessities might be unique from the next. We are more than flexible and happy to fulfill your desires; just tell us what it is you require, and we will present you with the best package and offer to ensure you have the most wonderful, at ease, and memorable vacation while here in Mindo and Ecuador!

Bedrooms

2 Bedrooms

Sleeps 4

Owner

Marjorie & Fernando Salmeron

Member Since 2013

Speaks:

english, spanish

Calendar last updated:

Nov 16, 2018

About Marjorie & Fernando Salmeron

We're a tri-cultural family, having lived in Chile, Ecuador, and the United States. Since 1998 we have been in love with Mindo and its surrounding area, and in 2007 were able to start our dreams of raising our family here.
Our two children, ages 7 and 13, speak both English, Spanish, and Spanglish, and have the unique opportunity to adventure outside without worrying about cars or strangers, or take walks into town and enjoy the magnificent views, natural lifestyle, and slow pace of life.

Marjorie & Fernando Salmeron purchased this Cottage in 2007

Why Marjorie & Fernando Salmeron chose Mindo

Mindo is neither too hot, too cold, nor too humid--it is perfect. It is located about 5,000 -6,500 feet above sea level, and as such is above the Ecuadorian malarial zone. Its seasons are divided into rainy and dry, with half the year (approximately June to December) being the dry season, and the other half (December to June), the rainy one.
During that time it may rain all day, or just predominantly in the afternoon, leaving the mornings pleasant and sunny for outdoor activities. In this case, usually after such exercise, afternoon rains are a refreshing welcome, with the rhythmic sound calming you after a day of activities, or lulling you to sleep from so much fun.
Wildlife, in both flora and fauna, is abundant here, and unique to this small corner of the world. Mindo is also primarily known for outdoor and adventure activities, all of which are in close range to our property at Posada La Lomita. Contrary to many other parts of Ecuador and South America, you will notice that the Mindo community has an appreciation and understanding of the importance of the biodiversity of this region, and as such provides resources and support for its continued existence.

What makes this Cottage unique

You will find perhaps other homes in Mindo, or lodges and cabins that offer your own private sleeping quarters, but what sets us apart is our closeness with nature, yet privacy and remoteness from the town, in which you can take advantage of the large house and expansive property for carrying on your own activities. We are self-sufficient and in control of our energy consumption; when Mindo is without electricity, we are not. Likewise, when Mindo is without water, we also are not. The house doesn't offer residence to multiple guests at once, but rather one family at a time--thus ensuring a complete private, family experience. We have no visible neighbors, yet we are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from town and all the much desired tourist activities. Depending on your mood and your longing for seclusion, you can all of it, none of it, or pick and choose your level of anonymity and socialization. Posada La Lomita is a paradise suitable for every kind of person, family, and personality!

Dining

Dining area is open to kitchen and consists of a large counter top with stools.

comfy seating for 5 people

Entertainment

Television

DVD Player

Books

A handful of Ecuadorian and regional books related to the birds & flora of Mindo.

Games

Board games, puzzles, cards, etc., for adults and kids.

Video Library

Large collection of DVDs available in English and Spanish.

Outside

Lawn / Garden

Approximately 6 acres of forest and 1 acre of lawn & landscaping, suitable for playing soccer, croquet, badminton, and just running/walking around.

Bicycles

Bicycles available within the town of Mindo for rent.

Outdoor Grill

Outdoor Grill Gas

Deck / Patio

Though separate from the cottage, our Wildlife/Gazebo Lookout serves as a spectacular outdoor patio space!

Lanai / Gazebo

A gazebo type lookout is available on the property & just downhill from the house, open to air & complete with 6 hammocks & table for 4. Great for enjoying nature's views while outdoors!

Suitability

wheelchair inaccessible

Long-term Renters Welcome

Pool / Spa

Private Pool

A natural, mountain spring sourced, continuously fed, chemical free pool is on the property for our guests to enjoy. No lifeguard is on duty however; therefore all responsibility lies with the guest.

Onsite Services

Staff

Car Available

Chauffeur

Private Chef

Notes

Posada La Lomita is named so because we are located up the climb of one of the many mountains surrounding the valley and town of Mindo. Lomita means 'little hill'. Cloud forest mountains surround us on all four sides, and you can hear the Mindo River not far below. Parrots flock across our property every morning and afternoon, and toucans and other brilliantly colored, various birds are a common site from the multitude of windows in the cottage and on the property. Many times you will also see guatusas and armadillos wandering the property (armadillos are visible during night walks), and even freshwater crabs from the nearby creek!
A hike to the nearby waterfall is always a favorite guest attraction & provided complete with a guide, courtesy of us!

House Rules

Check-in: 1:00 PM

Check-out: Noon

Cancellation Policy

100% refund if canceled at least 30 days before arrival date. 50% refund if canceled at least 14 days before arrival date.

7 Reviews

Exceptional5/5

1 - 6 of 7

Absolutely, one of the best places we have ever stayed at

5/5

Stayed Feb 2018

Clifton W.

The owners are great people. The 10+ species of hummingbirds at the place put on a great show. The sauna/pool was extremely refreshing. Being surrounded by rain forest jungle with just the sounds of wildlife was rejuvenating. All the fun of Mindo a short walk away.

Submitted Mar 3, 2018

Highly recommended

5/5

Stayed Mar 2017

ROGER G.Albuquerque, USA

A very good experience in every way. A clean, roomy 2 BR cottage in the well-maintained grounds that look just like the photo. Gas water-heater provides nice hot water and there's a gas cook-top and refrigerator. Lights and outlets are solar/battery powered, plentiful power even in the rainy season during my 11 day stay.

Mindo is maybe 2 Km away, 35 minute pleasant walk or $3-4 taxi ride. It's manageable for those who have little or no Spanish, but has a nice rather exotic ambience. 2+ hours from Quito.

The property owners were remarkably pleasant, very helpful, they live on the property, available when you need something, but not intrusive on your privacy.

Many people who visit Ecuador, and Mindo especially, are looking for birds. There are lots of great birding areas within a few Km. The grounds of the Posada, and its immediate neighborhood, have plenty of birds too - I tallied at least 7 different hummingbirds species, motmots, Swallow-tailed Kites, Common Potoo, toucans and parrots for a start.

Nano will take you to the waterfall a 20 minute walk away.

Perfect for those who would like to get away from the Holiday Inn type accommodation, enjoy the rich flora and fauna, be exposed to the Ecuadorian ambience and culture, yet do so in comfort.

Submitted Apr 6, 2017

High stardard accommodation in beautiful grounds and surrounding countryside

5/5

Stayed Apr 2016

Roy W.

Despite some electricity restriction La Lomita is a delightful and rewarding place to stay. The cottage is well appointed with high quality furnishings, efficiently maintained and scrupulously clean. The owners, Fernando and Marjorie, together with their young children live close by and should the need arise, are always ready to advise and help in the most unobtrusive manner. In our case we are indebted to Marjorie for making possible an urgently needed communication with home when our own devices failed. More routinely we were invited to rides into Mindo whenever they journeyed themselves and they gave valued information regarding local guiding and chauffeur services.

For those seeking to experience Ecuador's superb birdlife we know of no better place both within the grounds itself and the many reserves within easy reach. Scenic walks are close by and for the more energetic zip lines and river tubing activities are also available. For particular attraction to us was the private on site stream fed swimming pool. Our visit there was usually followed with a glass or two lazing in the adjacent gazebo.

If like us, you desire a taste of the natural life combined with a high degree of comfort we know of no better place.

Janet & Roy W. United Kingdom

Submitted Apr 28, 2016

Owner's Response:

Thank you Roy and Janet for your lovely words! It's always a pleasure to have such wonderful guests and we hope to see you here again someday ;-)

A Must Stay!

5/5

Stayed Dec 2015

Lindsay M.

Our party of four had an absolutely wonderful time at this property. Nano and Marjorie were extremely helpful both before our arrival and during our stay, answering our many questions and assisting us in finding transportation. One of the most memorable parts of our trip was the hike to the waterfall with Nano-we loved learning about the source of the property's water while viewing the cloud forest around us. Sometimes we took the half-hour walk into town, other times we easily found a taxi to take us. We found the people of Mindo extremely kind and trustworthy. The property was wonderful, even better than the pictures! Whether it was reading in the hammocks, playing croquet on the lawn, or spending time at the pristine pool, our time there was relaxing. We highly recommend getting breakfast, as you will be treated to eggs from the property's hens, tea made from the garden's herbs, and delicious fruits. Bringing rain boots will definitely help you on the waterfall hike and on your other Mindo adventures-we were kindly lent some! It is evident from your first step onto the property and continues to be evident throughout your stay-Nano and Marjorie have a wonderful vision and are passionate about what they do. We would come back in a heartbeat!

Submitted Jan 11, 2016

Owner's Response:

Thank you all for such nice feedback! It was a pleasure to host you and we'd love to see you back again someday ;-) Best to you all!

Nature and People at their Best!

5/5

Stayed Aug 2015

Jodi R.

This is a spectacular property with wonderful owners. Marjorie and Nano were gracious hosts that went out of their way to make our stay special. The property and cottage are immaculate. All the small details really were appreciated- flowers in the cottage, homemade insect repellent, shampoo, conditioner, delicious coffee, interpreting the artisan chocolate tour, the waterfall hike, information and directions beforehand, etc….. If you are looking for a quiet retreat in nature, this is the place!

Submitted Aug 24, 2015

Owner's Response:

Thanks Jodi! We enjoyed your stay very much too, as well as the opportunity to get to know you and your family ;-) We're so happy you had a wonderful time and hope to see you again in the future!

A spectacular place to stay

5/5

Stayed Aug 2015

Nick S.

This was our favourite place to stay during our five week trip to Ecuador. The house is beautiful and the landscape is stunning. Marjorie and Nano really made our stay though, just by being friendly, helpful and available.

When our boys didn't want to share a double bed, they dismantled it and put in bunk beds. They lent me binoculars when I mentioned that I was interested in the birds, they took us on a hike to local waterfalls. They suggested places to go and set up a bird-watching tour. They brought fresh eggs and told us to help ourselves to salad from the greenhouse and lemons off of the trees.

We loved the natural pool which we swam in every day. We also liked to have our morning coffee down at the hammock gazebo.

It really was a wonderful week spent.

Submitted Aug 16, 2015

Owner's Response:

Thank you Nick and family for your wonderful words ;-) We enjoyed your stay here just as much as you did! We hope to see you again some time!

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Map

Mindo, Ecuador

Availability

We are completely off the grid and rely on solar panels for electricity. As such, high watt electronics such as hair dryers, clothes irons, curling irons, blenders, electric coffee makers, etc., are strictly prohibited because of their potential to fry our battery supply. The guest is able to charge low watt items such as cell phones, computers, and other small, electronic gadgets without issue. To compensate, a hand-cranked blender, organic ground coffee, and a french press are provided as off-grid replacements. By accepting these terms and conditions, the guest agrees to not use such high watt items (no greater than 60-80 watts/hour, maximum), and if in doubt, will ask the owner before their use. Upon reservation, the guest accepts full responsibility for any battery damage that might result from the use of high watt items that have not been previously approved by the owner. We thank you sincerely for understanding!